Lung Cancer

Definition

Cancer occurs when cells in the body divide without control or order. If cells keep dividing uncontrollably, a mass of tissue forms. This is called a growth or tumor.
The term cancer refers to malignant tumors. They can invade nearby tissue and spread to other parts of the body.

Lung cancer is a disease in which cancer cells grow in the lungs. There are two types of lung cancers:

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy
is the use of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. This may also be used to relieve symptoms, such as shortness of breath. External radiation is usually used to treat lung cancer. With this treatment, radiation is directed at the tumor from a source outside of the body.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy
is
the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. This may be given in many forms, including pill, injection, and via a catheter. Chemotherapy is often used to kill lung cancer cells that have spread to other parts of the body.

Newer Treatments

Photodynamic therapy (PDT)—a type of laser therapy. A chemical is injected into the bloodstream. It is then absorbed by the cells of the body. The chemical rapidly leaves normal cells. It will remain in cancer cells for a longer time. A laser aimed at the cancer activates the chemical. This chemical then kills the cancer cells that have absorbed it. This treatment may also be used to reduce symptoms.

Cryosurgery—a treatment that freezes and destroys cancer tissue

Other treatments that are being researched include:

Targeted therapy—involves using medicines or substances to target certain molecules in the cancer cells

Immunotherapy—involves using medicines or substances made by the body to increase or restore the body's natural defenses against cancer

If you are diagnosed with lung cancer, follow your doctor's
instructions
.

Prevention

Test your home for radon gases and asbestos. Have these substances removed if they are in the home.

Do not work in a place with asbestos.

The American Lung Association and American Cancer Society both suggest that screening for lung cancer with a type of
CT scan
may be considered if you are a smoker (or former smoker), aged 55-74 years, and have a history of heavy smoking (such as one pack a day for 30 years).

Lung cancer CT screening: is it right for me? American Lung Association website. Available at:
http://www.lung.org/lung-disease/lung-cancer/lung-cancer-screening-guidelines/lung-cancer-screening-for-patients.pdf. Accessed May 11, 2012.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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